Part 5/9:
One key point is that China recognizes the immense risks involved. Historically, even if China were to conquer Taiwan without direct US involvement, it would not solve its deeper problems. An invasion would likely provoke international sanctions, including unofficial embargoes, particularly because China heavily relies on maritime trade and global shipment routes—what the speaker refers to as “freedom of the seas.” Disrupting these trade routes could lead to economic collapse within months, triggering famine and internal chaos, which could threaten the very legitimacy of the Chinese regime.